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Diarrhea

Frequent loose or watery stools. Can be acute or chronic. Can be an indication for probiotics (Saccharomyces boulardii), adsorbents, astringents, L-glutamine. Replenishing fluids and electrolytes is important.

What may help
12
What to avoid
8

What may help (12)

  • Butyrate Supplements HighClinical

    Butyrate supports the rapid repair of your intestinal lining and calms inflammation, which can effectively reduce the frequency and severity of various types of diarrhea.

  • Lactase Supplements HighClinical

    Taking lactase can prevent the osmotic diarrhea associated with lactose intolerance by ensuring proper digestion of milk sugar in the gut.

  • Potassium Supplements HighClinical

    Diarrhea can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte loss, including potassium. Replenishing potassium is crucial to maintain proper electrolyte balance and support the body's recovery during and after an episode.

  • Amylase Supplements MediumClinical

    When diarrhea is linked to inefficient carbohydrate digestion, amylase can help properly break down starches, thereby reducing their potential to cause osmotic effects and promoting more formed stools.

  • Eat Whole Foods Habits MediumClinical

    In cases of chronic diarrhea linked to gut dysbiosis or inflammation, a balanced whole-food diet can help normalize bowel function. Soluble fiber can help regulate stool consistency, while the absence of processed ingredients reduces intestinal irritation, supporting a healthier gut environment and more predictable bowel movements.

  • Glutamine Supplements Very highTheoretical

    L-Glutamine helps soothe and repair the intestinal lining, which can be particularly beneficial in reducing the severity and duration of diarrhea by strengthening the gut barrier.

  • Hydration with Electrolytes Practices Very highTheoretical

    In cases of diarrhea, the body rapidly loses essential fluids and electrolytes, leading to dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions, rich in balanced electrolytes, are highly effective in rapidly restoring lost minerals and water, preventing severe dehydration and its systemic complications, as evidenced by extensive clinical research and WHO guidelines.

  • Probiotics Supplements Very highTheoretical

    Probiotics, especially the yeast S. boulardii, are highly effective in reducing the duration and severity of various types of diarrhea, including those caused by antibiotics or travel.

  • Consume Probiotics Habits HighTheoretical

    Specific probiotic strains, notably Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, are highly effective in shortening the duration of acute infectious diarrhea and preventing traveler's diarrhea. They work by inhibiting pathogen adhesion, producing antimicrobial substances, and enhancing intestinal barrier integrity, leading to a faster recovery.

  • Low FODMAP Diet Practices HighTheoretical

    For individuals experiencing diarrhea, particularly those with IBS-D, the Low FODMAP Diet effectively helps normalize bowel movements. It achieves this by reducing the osmotic load in the small intestine, which lessens water influx into the gut, and by decreasing bacterial fermentation that can accelerate transit. This leads to fewer, more formed stools.

  • Naturopathy Practices HighTheoretical

    Naturopathic interventions for diarrhea are highly effective in restoring gut balance. Probiotics, particularly Saccharomyces boulardii, are strongly evidenced to reduce diarrhea duration and severity by modulating gut microbiota and improving intestinal barrier function. L-glutamine also supports gut healing.

  • Marshmallow Root Supplements LowTheoretical

    Marshmallow root can provide a soothing effect on the irritated intestinal lining, which may offer some comfort during episodes of diarrhea.

What to avoid (8)

  • Magnesium Supplements HighClinical

    Many oral magnesium supplements can act as laxatives and cause diarrhea. If you are already experiencing diarrhea, taking magnesium could make it significantly worse.

  • Citrulline Supplements MediumClinical

    High doses of Citrulline, especially Citrulline Malate, may cause digestive upset including loose stools or diarrhea in some individuals. If you are prone to diarrhea or have sensitive bowels, start with a low dose and adjust gradually.

  • Swimming Practices MediumClinical

    Avoid swimming in public pools if you have acute diarrhea, as it poses a significant public health risk and can lead to dehydration.

  • Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) Supplements MediumClinical

    If you are experiencing diarrhea, TUDCA may worsen your symptoms by affecting bowel movements. It's best to consult your doctor before use.

  • Chondroitin Sulfate Supplements LowClinical

    Oral chondroitin sulfate can sometimes cause mild digestive upset, including diarrhea.

  • Cistanche Tubulosa Supplements MediumPeople reports

    If you are experiencing diarrhea, Cistanche Tubulosa may worsen your symptoms due to its mild laxative properties.

  • Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Supplements MediumPeople reports

    High doses of CLA, especially due to its oily nature, can sometimes lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea.

  • Vitamin B5 Supplements MediumPeople reports

    While generally safe, very high doses of Vitamin B5 might cause temporary digestive upset, including loose stools or diarrhea in some individuals.

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